We recognize that successful pilots aren’t enough if we don’t see wide replication and broader change. The needs are urgent and we receive calls every day from organizations around the country that have specific questions about our programs. Our intent is to make sure that people who want to replicate our work have the information they need to do so.
We also work closely with the Business Alliance for Local Living Economies, (BALLE), a national ‘network of networks’ with a mission to catalyze, strengthen, and connect local business networks focused on building local living economies. BALLE provides best practices from organizations around the country.

Tools we offer

Contact april@sconnect.org to order, unless otherwise noted
Salestax of 8.4% will be added to all materials purchased

• DVD: We have two different versions available. 2005 does a good job of laying out our work and programs in a way that makes sense for a business audience. (It even includes the WA State Governor saying she wants to see our work emulated throughout the State.) 2006 also walks viewers through our programs but does it in a more light hearted way that showcases the fun and human connections that are at the core of our work.
  $15 each (includes shipping in the USA)
• Sample Materials Package: Always fresh…when we get your request we’ll put together a package with hot off the press materials including a (normally $10) coupon book, a farm map, membership brochure, 2 program brochures, at least 2 Think Local First promotional posters and a newspaper insert, a hefty member directory, newsletter, recent sustainability initiative promotional piece, and a recent event promotional piece.
  $40 (includes shipping in the USA)
• Think Local First campaign How-To Kit: This successful campaign has changed the purchasing behaviors of 3 in 5 local households in our community and is being replicated in dozens of communities across the country. If you’re looking for information about this program we documented it for BALLE and you can purchase it directly from them.
  $100 at click here to order from BALLE

Coming in 2008:

• FREE downloadable tip sheets and FAQ about our programs.
• Building a Community of Business: Sustainable Connections the How-To Kit -- This practical, hands on work book, walks through the history and how-to’s behind building and operating Sustainable Connections. Includes step-by step program planning, communications and fundraising, membership recruitment, organizational structure, and getting started. Also includes ongoing program maintenance, timelines, budgeting, volunteer and board management, and strategic planning.

Personal Connections we offer

• Keynote presentations and planning workshops in your community: On a limited basis, (generally no more than one trip per month), our executive director, Michelle Long, travels to other communities to inspire government and business leaders about what’s possible, and/or to help planning committees of local business owners. Click here to see details about available keynotes & workshops.  View this calendar of scheduled engagements for the opportunity to tag onto another trip.
  $1500 + travel (assumes 2 days away including travel)

Coming Soon:

• “Everyone’s Welcome!” FREE Monthly Conference Calls – once a month and open to everyone
• One-on-one consulting to answer the questions you have when you have them. By appointment.
  $75/hour (includes our 5-15 minutes to prepare resources to answer your questions.) *The same hourly rates apply if you want to visit for face-to-face consulting.
• Building a Community of Business: Sustainable Connections the How-To Workshop – Held in Bellingham, Washington, our 8-hour workshops provide the how-to’ details and budgets behind the creation and operations of Sustainable Connections. Our staff, board members and a sampling of our business members ensure all your questions can be answered. Topics covered include: step-by step program planning, communications and fundraising, membership recruitment, organizational structure, and getting started. Also includes ongoing program maintenance, timelines, budgeting, volunteer and board management, and partnerships. E-mail April@sconnect.org if you would like to be alerted to dates for these workshops.